ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Butterflies and Skippers - Giant Swallowtail

 Giant Swallowtail


 		 The giant swallowtail is our largest native Ohio butterfly. It has a very strong flight. It seems to be stroking its wings effortlessly, and yet it can be very hard to keep up with this butterfly.
 

Giant Swallowtail
Papilio cresphontes

At-a-Glance

• Flight Period: May, June, late July, and August

• Wings: 4.0 - 6.3 inches

 
Description
This large butterfly has long, dark, spoon-shaped tails that have yellow centers. The wings are dark brown to black with two broad bands of yellow spots that converge at the tip of the forewing.

Habitat and Habits
The giant swallowtail inhabits open fields near wet woods, woodland edges, and gardens. It can be found throughout Ohio, but it is scarce in the eastern half of the state.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The larvae of this species feeds on prickly-ash, and wafer-ash, and look like bird droppings.